When/Why

Pasta is great – I love Italian food. However, it’s incredibly calorific, and if you prefer to avoid wheat/gluten due to any form of interference, then finding a substitution could allow you to enjoy a similar experience. That’s exactly what this meal is – a very similar dinner experience to a traditional Span Bol, but instead with a more nutrient rich low-carb alternative in spiralized Butternut Squash. There’s a little more bite than al dente pasta, but beyond that it’s very similar. You feel less bloated afterwards, and generally feel healthier. Can’t go wrong with Spaghetti Bolognese! A really tasty and healthy meal.

What

Butternut Squash Spaghetti – 250g (pre-spiralized from a most supermarkets)

Lean Beef Mince – 250g (drain any excess fat)

Rice Bran Oil – 2x tablespoon

Mushrooms – 3x medium

Broccoli – 60g

Garlic – 1x clove

Italian Passata – ½ carton

Diced Onions – 1x tablespoon

Parmesan – 1x teaspoon

Red Wine Vinegar

Add to flavour – Herbs & Seasoning –

Salt, Black Pepper, Dried Basil & Dried Oregano, Cinnamon

Benefits

Butternut Squash is a good source of vitamin E, thiamin, niacin, vitamin B-6, folate, pantothenic acid, and manganese. Also a great source of potassium (more than bananas), which support healthy heart, kidney, muscle and digestive function. Lean beef is a great source of protein and creatine, both very supportive to having developing and maintaining a lean physique. Then you have the indigestible fibre and prebiotic benefits for your guts microbiome, that come with mushrooms, garlic, onions and broccoli. Broccoli also brings a good hit of vitamin K, vitamin C, folate (folic acid) and potassium.

Lastly, for those who have Gluten sensitivity or intolerance, this is a great way to experience a a traditional food without all the downsides of consuming wheat. Most people would benefit from reducing gluten from their diets.

Follow this Food Diary micro-blog as it unfolds. Comment if you have questions or ideas on meals, and please keep me honest to the above.